State-mandated water cutbacks now in effect
(CNS) — The mayors of several cities in San Diego County have called on San Diegans to reduce outdoor irrigation as state water cutback mandates took effect.
Cities and water agencies in the region have been ordered to slice water deliveries to customers -- the percentages range between 12 percent and 36 percent -- through February because of the ongoing drought. The state’s mandates went into effect on Monday.
San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer said there is no greater challenge in the state than the drought and everyone has to conserve water.
“As mayors, we know that we’re all in this together and we will work together to reduce water usage throughout the San Diego region,’’ Faulconer said. “The easiest way to save water is to scale back on watering of outdoor lawns.’’
The mayors also called on residents to take advantage of turf replacement rebates and free water surveys of their property.
Poway Mayor Steve Vaus of Poway was among those taking part in a news conference at the Water Conservation Garden at Cuyamaca College, which displays drought-tolerant landscaping.
In the city of San Diego, which has been ordered by the state to cut back 16 percent, when compared to 2013, applications for turf replacement rebates will be accepted when the city’s new budget goes into effect next month. Faulconer included $1.15 million for the rebates in his budget proposal.
Poway has been ordered to reduce water use by 32 percent when compared to the same period in 2013.
The water use restrictions that took effect Monday include:
-- using potable water to irrigate ornamental landscapes no more than two days a week. (This restriction has been in effect in Poway since May 1);
-- not using potable water for decorative water features unless they recycle the water;
-- not washing vehicles unless using an automatic shut-off nozzle;
-- not using potable water to wash sidewalks and driveways;
-- and not allowing runoff from irrigation.
“San Diego County residents have done a great job conserving water over the past few decades, but we face unprecedented conditions and we each need to find new ways to reduce our water use,’’ said Maureen Stapleton, general manager of the San Diego Water Authority.
